Why You Need This Tortellini Pasta Salad in Your Life
When warm weather hits, nothing satisfies quite like a cool, flavorful tortellini pasta salad. Packed with vibrant vegetables, cheese-filled pasta, and a zesty Italian dressing, this is the ultimate side dish that steals the spotlight. Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ, picnic, or a last-minute potluck contribution, this dish is always a win.
Here’s why this salad shines:
- Quick to make: Ready in just 25 minutes
- No boring bites: Every forkful is bursting with flavor
- Make-ahead friendly: Tastes better as it sits
- Crowd-pleaser: Loved by adults and kids alike
“This pasta salad is so good, you’ll want to make a double batch every time!”
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cheese tortellini | 1 (20-oz) package | Fresh or frozen, cooked & cooled |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup, halved | Adds sweetness and color |
| Cucumber | 1 medium, diced | Adds crunch and freshness |
| Red onion | ½ small, thinly sliced | Optional, adds a tangy bite |
| Bell pepper (any color) | 1, diced | Choose your favorite color |
| Olives (black or green) | ½ cup, sliced | Adds salty, briny flavor |
| Mozzarella balls | ½ cup | Mini or pearl-sized preferred |
| Italian dressing | ½ to ¾ cup | Store-bought or homemade |
| Fresh parsley or basil | 2 tbsp, chopped | For garnish |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Adjust to your liking |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking.
Step 2: Prep the veggies
While the pasta cools, chop your vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumbers and peppers, and slice the onions.
Step 3: Combine everything
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked tortellini, veggies, olives, and mozzarella balls. Pour in your Italian dressing and toss to coat everything evenly.
Step 4: Chill & serve
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Garnish with fresh herbs right before serving.
Tips for the Best Tortellini Pasta Salad
- Use fresh tortellini for a quicker cook time and better texture.
- Rinse pasta in cold water to cool it quickly and stop it from sticking.
- Adjust the dressing depending on how saucy you like it. Add more before serving if it soaks in.
- Let it sit — the longer it rests, the more flavorful it becomes.
Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving Estimate)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
Perfectly balanced for a side dish that’s satisfying without being too heavy!
Easy Variations to Try
Feeling creative? Here are a few ways to customize your pasta salad:
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, salami slices, or chickpeas
- Switch the cheese: Try feta, shaved parmesan, or cheddar cubes
- Go green: Toss in baby spinach, arugula, or kale
- Spice it up: Add banana peppers or a pinch of red chili flakes
What to Serve With Tortellini Pasta Salad
This dish plays well with others! Pair it with:
- Grilled burgers, chicken, or skewers
- A summer soup like gazpacho
- Fresh fruit salad or lemon bars
- Crusty bread or garlic knots
Final Thoughts
If you need a low-effort, high-reward dish, this tortellini pasta salad is it. It checks all the boxes: easy, flavorful, fresh, and loved by everyone. Make it once, and it’ll be your new go-to for every gathering.
Looking for more pasta salad inspiration? Try these: